Thanks to its mild hybrid design, the XV Crosstrek Hybrid most likely won't be able to drive on electricity for any appreciable distance. Instead, the electric motor will add torque to the engine output to be used when pulling away from stops and for an extra boost of power in certain situations.

Nonetheless, the XV Crosstrek Hybrid may prove to be very popular.

Soon after the car's unveiling, Subaru was swamped by demand, receiving 5,850 orders in Japan in just two weeks--more than 10 times the monthly sales target of 550 units.

The non-hybrid Crosstrek is also quite popular in the U.S.; the hybrid model will offer buyers of this stereotypically socially-conscious brand an even greener option.